For Pete's Sake

Raiders explain why they won’t allow any fans into Allegiant Stadium this fall

No matter what happens on the field, the Raiders’ first season in Las Vegas will be one to remember.

That’s because the team announced Monday it won’t let fans into Allegiant Stadium. While the Chiefs expect “reduced capacity” at Arrowhead Stadium this fall because of the COVID-19 pandemic, no one in silver and black will be in stands in Las Vegas.

“There is nothing more important to the Raider Organization than the health and safety of our players, coaches, staff, stadium workers and fans,” the Raiders said in the statement, per Pro Football Talk. “After intensive consultation with healthcare officials and state and community leaders, we have made the difficult decision to play the Las Vegas Raiders 2020 inaugural season at Allegiant Stadium without fans in attendance. This decision is based on our commitment to protect the health of our fans and the entire community in response to the coronavirus pandemic affecting us all.”

That means at least one Chiefs game this fall will be played without fans in the stands.

The Raiders said even if some fans were allowed for games, the team couldn’t decide who would be allowed through the gates.

“This decision also ensures fairness to you, our PSL holders, given the challenges and potential inequities associated with determining who can and cannot attend specific games if the stadium were to operate at a reduced capacity,” the Raiders said in the statement. “While the current situation is not how any of us envisioned celebrating the opening of Allegiant Stadium, when circumstances permit we look forward to sharing an unparalleled game day experience in the magnificent stadium you helped build.”

Here is a look at the stadium:

Pete Grathoff
The Kansas City Star
From covering the World Series to the World Cup, Pete Grathoff has done a little bit of everything since joining The Kansas City Star in 1997.
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